Oral health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors during Ramadan: a cross-sectional study among adults in Qatar

Ramadan fasting influences daily routines, dietary patterns, and oral hygiene behaviors among Muslims. Understanding how these changes affect oral health is essential for developing culturally appropriate health promotion strategies. This study examined oral health knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and sugar consumption among adults living in Qatar during Ramadan.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 199 adults. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire covering oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, attitudes toward oral health, and perceptions of dental care during fasting. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, McNemar tests, and logistic regression analyses were applied to assess associations and predictors of oral health behaviors.

Participants demonstrated generally high oral hygiene awareness, with most maintaining regular brushing before and during Ramadan. However, misconceptions persisted, as 23% believed that toothpaste use invalidates fasting. Education level was the strongest predictor of oral health knowledge, and positive attitudes significantly influenced brushing frequency. Younger and less-educated individuals reported higher sugar consumption, often linked to cultural Ramadan traditions. The findings partially supported the Knowledge-Attitude-Behavior model.

Culturally grounded and faith-aligned oral health promotion strategies are needed to address misconceptions and reduce sugar consumption during Ramadan. Integrating community-based and digital educational approaches may help sustain healthy oral hygiene behaviors throughout and beyond the fasting month.